Writing the kalima on the shroud

Question

When putting the shroud on the deceased, some people write the kalima on his chest. Is this permissible?

Answer

Writing with a pen and ink is prohibited. Some people write merely by a gesture of the finger: there is no disrespect in this, but neither is it established. If someone writes by a gesture of the finger, do not quarrel with him over it, nor insist on it.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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